HotelsMag March-April 2022 | Page 15

the traditional reception desk , our innovative use of tech creates a streamlined guest experience , allowing self-check in , access to a local ’ s guide for the city and everything they need to get the most out of their visit .
• Sustainability : Each of our residences are designed to stand the test of time and leave a positive impression on our environment . We are delivering sustainable initiatives across the House of Julius Meinl and in each of our locations . Our working ethos and products are guided by the principles of reducing consumption and creating quality products and services that support our society . We believe in creating places and products that support our environment for the benefit of future generations , and we believe this is of utmost importance to our residents also .
H : How will you differentiate your public / communal space and how important is this space to the brand and its essence ? JM : The Julius will offer unique look and feel created by Italian Studio Matteo Thun following the principle “ soul of the room , soul of the place .” The rooms are similar design in our properties ; however , ground floor amenities , the restaurant , co-working spaces and the gym are going to be specific in each destination , displaying the flavor and uniqueness of the destination . In addition , it is our intention that our properties should incorporate boutique outlets for the House of Julius Meinl products developed for and mainly sold through Julius Meinl am Graben in Vienna . These products are terrific . Their availability should both reinforce the brand within the properties and draw people to the properties .
H : What / who inspired you ? JM : Personal experience and obstacles one comes across as a traveller , as well as insights from friends and colleagues . Nowadays , the modern businessman travels less frequently but stays longer at one place . So , there is a natural need for a home away from home . Digital nomads do not depend on the office space , they find co-working spaces in the places they travel to . Likewise , the modern family wants rooms that configure well to more than two occupants . The bottom line : today ’ s world needs to be much more flexible and adaptable to travelers ’ needs . Precisely because traditional hospitality venues tend to be neither flexible nor adapted in this way , we saw the opportunity to create an offering that was different .
Honoring our founding principles , the creation of The Julius is an exciting moment to not only look back on our legacy but to
Façade at The Julius in Prague also establish a new future . The Julius offers a chance to bring the standards of the House of Julius Meinl to a new sphere of hospitality , to a new audience and to new destinations .
H : What do you like and dislike about current upscale and luxury hotel products today ? JM : Around the world today there are many beautiful hotels with great staff , some recent and some with long histories . However , most operate on the same premise ; namely that a hotel room is just for sleeping and bathing . We believe that in most situations ’ travelers want a great deal more than that – and that travelers do not just come in ones and twos , but in families as well . Most hotel offerings are not well adapted for the needs of families .
Also , the number of people traveling for business on assignments of two weeks or more has been increasing . Our service and offer fits this growing trend , too .